What a difference 2 years makes...

Really? I have not posted anything in a month....Is that possible? Yep 100% possible, and I DO feel a little crappy for that...Since getting back from the Marathon it has been an extremely busy time at work(no excuses), and I was struggling to decide what to do with the Seattle Marathon...Would I do the Half? or the Whole?

As many of you that read this already know, I chose the half...Much of this had to do with my body, but it also had to do with my mind...After the marathon I spent the next couple of weeks a little burnt out, but wanting to continue to push badly...

Up until a week ago, I still thought I may still do the Whole...Then a training run of 13 reminded me that the half was the way I needed to go..So at 4 a.m. this morning, I awoke and got the family together(with Vanessa of course helping me), and we headed to Seattle with 1 goal...Break 2 hours and set a PR.

From the beginning the day started out perfectly..Arrived in Seattle..NO TRAFFIC, then again who else is driving from Silverdale to Seattle at 5 in the morning...Got a parking spot in a parking ramp, and low and behold find out that our spot is, no kidding, 2 minutes from the starting line....and the Port-a-Potties...As many of you know that have followed my weight loss and running, this(the port-a-potties, are key...and they did not fail me this morning before the gun went off:))

After my good luck kisses and hugs from my cheering section, I headed to the start line...Oh...I forgot...Today I decked myself out in a "AWESOME" outfit....Santa Shirt, Santa Socks, MY USA Shoes, Green Shorts and Green Hat....You that know me really well, can agree that I was channeling my inner Chris Kringle and Clark Griswold..

The Gun went off at 7:30 a.m. The only negative thing I have to say at all about this race is the first 3 miles...and only now 2 years into serious running can I complain about it...Back when I first started running, I figured you just ran to finish...When you came up to someone you pause and wait, wait for an opening etc. Patience, Patience, Patience....That is for the birds and for folks trying not to set a PR or a goal of any kind other than finishing...I was that person, I am not anymore...So what do I have to complain about...Those folks that pay no attention to their surroundings and stop in the middle of the road, move side to side talking to their friend...jumping out of the race to hug a loved one, but not watching for others around them...Call me insensitive.....but the first three miles of my race today were spent on sidewalks and weaving in and out more than a drunk at Beef Days(shout out to Solon, Iowa)..Weaving in and out, so I could achieve my PR...

In that first three miles I barely caught Vanessa and the kids waving as I sprinted by passing them on the sidewalk...

The next 10.1 miles? AMAZING, AMAZING, AMAZING...2 years ago when I did this race, I hurt, and I hurt bad at the end...the hills killed me, the downhills killed me and most of all my extra weight killed me...

Today, the roles were reversed...I killed the hills, drove down the downhills, and rejoiced that the weight is gone...and gone for good, because races like this remind me of why I have worked as hard as I have...

So some funny, motivating, and not so funny sidenotes from the race...

1) The runner at mile 12.75 who collapsed...Anyone that works that hard deserves to finish without incident..but sometimes the cards do not work out that way..Here is hoping he is OK and that he tackles his next race...

2) 2 hour pacers...there was nothing more motivating then catching up to the pacers(they started 6 minutes before me) and watching the distance grow, and grow, and grow between us...

3) The 13 year old girl whose parents wrote on the back of her shirt..."You are being beat by a 13 year old girl" Hilarious, but will not lie, as I watched all of those around me as she passed us, not one of us did not kick a little harder...I think she did beat me...

4) The Santa outfit got some cheers..."Go Santa" "You go Santa" Loved it, and appreciated it...

5) Domino's Bread Bowl Pasta...Come on, do you think I would make that mistake again...If you have no idea what that means, read the Marathon Blog below...

6) Kings of Leon...Added to the Playlist this time...Loved it...Along with the new tune by Jay-Z and Alicia Keyes...

7) Getting the call after the race from my Dad, and him informing me that I was running in the 99 age category...Guess they may have not read my reg form correctly...or last minute registrations did not all get in the computer yet...Whichever, pretty funny...

8) The feeling running the course this year, compared to 2 years ago...I can not possibly put into words the difference in my mind as I went the 13.1 Again I felt like I belonged..

9) The call to Vanessa after I crossed the finish line..."You are finished"..."Yes"..."Already" "Yes" "Shoot, we missed you"....I would have loved them to see me finish, but knowing it was because I ran faster than they thought I would, that caused this, makes me happy...

10) My family...Again, Vanessa and the kids were out there with bells and whistles...Cannot wait till the day that we can all run one together...

So what's next..Look for an updated race calendar soon...and enjoy the pics...the few that we have...because of the crowded ness and the quickness of the race...We got a picture from before and way after at home.....Oh, and by the way...PR was attained...1:52:14..Breaking my old PR by 13 minutes...

DC Marathon 26.2 List

Today was a great day...My 2nd Marathon went so much better than the 1st one..Cutting 38 minutes off of my PB...It was amazing to see the 250,000+ spectators cheer all of us runners along..Definitely recommend putting your name on the front of your shirt like I did today...Cannot tell you how uplifting it was as I ran the streets of DC hearing my name called...Even more inspiring was when spectators called out for Team Hole in the Wall..Everytime this happened I could not help but think of the children that I helped raise money for so that they could go to camp..

A big shout out to my support team here..Tim and Pops...They were able to get to a number of different locations and cheer me on, and it was a huge boost...Also, Tim and Pops provided us with some great pictures from the day that was...

So without further ado the Top 26.2 List from DC..in no particular order..

1. Meeting the Team Hole in the Wall folks was amazing..The participants that raised money through their participation in this race, raised $50,000...Picture below of the Team...

2. Seeing places that I have dreamed of seeing: JFK Gravesite, National Archives, Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam Memorial, just to the name a few..

3. Spending some QT with Pops and Tim..Tim has helped so much with my transformation and it was great having him here to support me in the race...Pops was a trooper as we dragged him all over DC..Thanks Guys..Love yah...

4. The Navy Lodge to Anacostia Bus Ride...Quite the experience, both during the day and late at night...

5. Seeing the Wounded Warriors competing in the marathon...These Heroes are truly that..In a time and age when we call many heroes...these young men and women showed true grit and determination..Anytime that I even considered stopping to walk or pity my own pain, I saw these folks and kept going...Thank you for serving our country..You truly are HEROES!!!

6. Port-A-Potties are my savior...Lets just say that I had some stomach issues during the race..This definately added about 3-5 minutes to my time, however it may have been avoidable...My pre-race dinner on Saturday night was Pasta...Which is good..what may have been the mistake was getting it from Dominoes...

7. The Floor of the Rosslyn Train Station..After the race we headed to the Rosslyn train station so that we could head back to the Navy Lodge..20 minutes later I am standing in line and have a horrible feeling that I am either going to pass out or hurl..Took a straight line to the wall, slid down and planted my ass right there...Good ole' Pops headed out and got me a Soda so I could get some Sugar in my sytem...20 minutes later...Good to go..

8. Marine Corps Marathon Organizers...What a great event...My only heartache..Need more port-a-potties...Long lines that could have been shortened with a few additional here and there..

9. Iwo Jima Memorial...What a great place to finish a race...

10. 4:08...My finishing time...All the way up until 3:45 into the race I thought I had the chance to reach my 4 hour goal...The last 3 miles were pretty brutal, but brutal in a good way..I could not quit..I would not allow myself to quit...

11. The tree outside the Jefferson Memorial..Damn thing almost knocked my ass out...No kidding...If I did not have my hat on, I think you would have seen some stiches in my head for the race..

12. Feeling like I actually belong...At the last marathon I still felt like a chubby guy who did not necessarily fit in with the runners...Now I feel like a runner who used to be heavy...I love it...

13. Seeing my college Buddy Matt Anderson...Had not seen him since Vanessa and I's wedding day...There was a time in college when we did some crazy things..It was great reminiscing on these and sharing our new stories...

14. The Marine Corps Marathon Medal..The thing is huge and FLASHY...My very own Bling...Cannot wait for Emma to put it on..

15. Lincoln Memorial Section of the race...People were ten deep all around the memorial...Folks were screaming and shouting the names of their runners...I saw so many signs...It was absolutely amazing...Also was amazing to see all fo the children cheering on their Moms and Dads..Could not help but think of Emma and Camden and Vanessa everytime I saw this happen.

16. The support of all of my friends either through phone calls, cards or on Face Book wishing me well wishes for the race..It truly meant alot and helped me carry on through the race....Everytime I thought about my time, or stopping etc...you all were on my minds...Felt like if I stopped I would be letting you all down...

17. Other competitors...I met so many cool people the last few days..Either at the race or the expo, or even on the train...I love hearing others stories...It is inspiring helps keep the flame lit to continue to compete and get better...

18. Meeting Kathrine Switzer and Roger Robinson...We all meet people in life that you hope live up to your expectations...Both not only lived up to my exectation, the actually exceeded them..They were more than willing to share stories, give advise, and sign my copies of their books..If you have not done so already, I highly recommend Kathrine's "Marathon Woman" You will love it...Whether you are a man or woman...

19. DC is an amzing City...So much history...So much to do, and I only touched on a fraction of what I actually hoped to see...Guess you can mark that on the future calendar for a Family Vacation..Though I will tell you...It is a hard city to travel with small children...Understand all of the safety and security measures...actually I encourage them...but they make them tough for families with small children..Just my two cents...Research the places you want to go before going..Can no longer do things on vacation that are spontanious...

20. One of the best conversations of the weekend...We are looking at all of the monuments, and Dad says don't they have one for Washington...Ummm...Dad, the Washington Monument..What he meant was a statue, but it was funny...at least to us it was...

21. Mitch Albom's latest book Have a Little Faith...Like his previous books Tuesdays with Morrie, The Five People you Meet in Heaven, and For One More Day...This one is Amazing and like Tuesdays is a True Story...I read it on the plane out here..and highly recommend it...

22. Listening to the Iowa game last night with Pops and Tim...Sure I would have loved to watch it, but we decided it was a better idea to listen to it and hit the hay a little early the night before the Race...Would have loved to had a picture of the three of u jumping into the air when we heard the TD on the last play of the game against MSU...Side note...we are sitting here in the Navy Lodge as I type this and the new BCS rankings just came out...Tim is not a big fan of Jesse Palmer right now...Hahahahaha...

23. It is exactly 1.65 miles from the Navy Lodge to the Front Gate..Why do I know that...Well I did my training runs to the gate after our first night here...Why? Well our first night here the cabbie dropped us off at the front gate and told us he could not drive in...LIAR, LIAR, Pants on Fire....1.65 miles later with our suitcases, we are on the front step of the Navy Lodge...

24. Nip Guards and Glide...This stuff saves nipples and delicate areas...Also...who would of thunk it...Losing weight also cuts down on the chaffing..Going into the shower after the race today I was scared...Usually there are some screams etc. as the water hits the chaffed areas...Not today...TMI? Maybe...but it does work...

25. The next task..Yep, I already have some plans...and yes Vanessa knows...They are: Seattle Half-Marathon..Going for a PB(Officially)....and the Eugene Marathon the first Weekend in May...This was my first marathon...Now it will be my first marathon under 4 hours...

26.2 My wife...Vanessa has been such a huge support in my life and the last 4 months have been no different...I know how lucky that I am to have such an amazing woman in my life to call my wife and more importantly my friend, and the love of my life...The only thing that would have made this weekend better was to have Vanessa and the kids here...Love you babe..

In conclusion a big hsout out to all of you...I love you all and cannot wait to share some of these experiences in person...GO HAWKS....More pictures of the weekend can be found on Facebook..

The Celebratory Beer....Double Dead Guy Ale....

Quite a Journey....

The dictionary defines a journey as "The Act of Traveling from one place to another, a trip...A process or course likened to traveling, a passage..."

Absolutely without a doubt, that is what this has been and will continue to be..

On February 6th, 2006, 3 years and 8 months ago, I started my journey from an overweight, scared that I may die an early death. yet confident person, to one that is now completely comfortable in his own skin, and God willing will live a long and prosperous life both Mentally and Physically...and On October 25th, 2009, I will hit a major milestone on this continuing journey. I will be runnning the Marine Corps Marathon, my 2nd Marathon...but my first with a goal other than finishing, in mind.."To break the 4 hour barrier.."

So why all the deepness for todays Blog..Well, today I completed my last Long run of the training process, and September was the last time I blogged...Have I really been that busy...Yes I have, but for the first time in my life, I stayed on my plans, physically...

So as I was saying today I ran my last distance run before the race next Sunday..It was only an 8 miler..Only an 8 miler, Geez, back when I was training for my 1st marathon even 8 seemed long...Not anymore, and I love that feeling...Finished the run in just under 1 hour and 10 minutes..and felt really good afterwards...My right ankle felt a little weak, however that is ok..becaue I just completed my training plan and got through it with little to no significant injuries...KNOCK ON WOOD...I still have 3 smaller runs this week...

Grand Total for all of my miles since the training began on July 13th....434 miles...Holy S#$%..

There are so many people that have been involved since Day 1.....

My Wife...Vanessa has been my rock throughout all of this...She puts up with alot of shit from me..I cannot be charming all of the time:) She is flexible when I need to run and she always knows what to say, even if it pisses me off to motivate me just a little more...

My Coach...Little Brother Tim...Man this guys is amazing...2 Ironmans down and he is still going...Him and his wife Lori are having their first kid in December, a boy, and I can hardly wait...Why? Because then we can have something else in common...Early in the training process, I gave him a call and said "Tim, I need help with my eating" From then on, he has helped me, supported me, and just listened...and I love him for that...He will be in DC with me this weekend, and I hope I make him half as proud as he has made me...

Co-Workers and Friends: Both in Japan and in Washington...I fully believe that the reason people do not succeed in changing their lifestyles is because they do not get those around them involved..Tell everyone...Ask everyone for help..Shoot...my co-workers and friends would not let me look at a doughnut, let alone eat it..and they would heep praise and compliments on me when I started to drop the pounds...We all need that...IF you say you do not, YOU ARE LYING...We all need a compliment here and there...It motivates us...Be honest, when you start dropping the pounds, and someone says to you, WOW you really look good today...Do you frown and start crying because you hate it...Hell to the no....You smile, say thank you, and in your head say Hell yes I do...

People I do not even know on the street that looked at me funny: I now realize that I was a big man..Really I did not know it when I was...Seriously I did not...and thats scary...I look back at pictures now and am embarrased...Was I athletic..yeah, could I do my job...yes? Did I look like I may have a heart attack when I did do these things...YES I DID...One of my good buddies in Japan once said to Vanessa as he was sitting on the bench during a B-Ball game and I was on the court..."Is Chris supposed to be that color?" Yikes...and yet it took another year before I started to do something about it..

My Grandpa Friedl(who passed a few years ago)-Who I often think about on my long runs, because, though I loved him so much, he used to give me the most crap about my weight..I know he can see me now and is proud of me..but it would feel really good to say.Ha look at me now...I am expecting some special look downs from Heaven Grandpa, and one of your special prayers like at Christmas next week as I get to the Starting line...

and of course my Parents: My work ethic comes from them and they always let me TRY new things..Because of that, I am still trying new things...

So here we are 1 week from the start of another point along this journey...Everyday has new challenges, new barriers to be broken and new temptations on the horizon...Do I eat that candy bar, do I drink that soda....or do I stay on task....I try to stay on task...

Below are some pictures from this continuing Journey...Thank you to all of you who have told me that I inspire you through my work and breakthroughs...You are also my inspiration...

3 Weeks and a GOAL MET....

So I went on my blog this morning and realized that I had not updated it in three weeks...Many reasons for that. 1 being that I do not have access to my pictures from three weeks ago, because they are currently trying to be restored by the Geek Squad in Kentucky.....

3 Week Recap:

The last weekend in August I flew to Louisville, Kentucky and supported little brother Tim as he competed in the Ironman Louisville event. This was an amazing weekend that I got to share with close friends and family. Any of you that have never been to an Ironman event...I highly recommend it...It can be an overwhelming experience for all involved...Tim finished the race, and his family and friends could not be prouder of him...to get its ample due, check out Tim's Blog for the full story...www.triathlontim.blogspot.com

While in Louisville, my dedication to the Marine Corps Marathon became very apparent..Just because I was in another state, time zone, etc. during training, my long run did not go away. In fact this was going to be the longest run of my training thus far...20 miles. So the day before the race(Saturday) I woke up at 5:00 a.m. and headed out for a darkened run, in an unfamiliar location...

Here's a recap of that run:

1) While stretching in the Hotel Parking Lot, solicited by a prostitute for a good time.

2) Within the 2nd mile of the run I had crossed the bridge from Louisville, Kentucky into Indiana. 2 states, 1 run...impressive.

3) The next few miles were brutal...the plan was to run out 10 miles and then come back the same way...

4) Running besides a cemetary at 5:30 in the morning, is a tad scary, though it does naturally make you run faster.

5) Was almost hit by a car...at least 5 times...Felt like I was playing chicken in the dark...Granted it did not help that I only had a foots worth of shoulder to work with.

6) 3+ hours later I was back in Louisville, having completed my run and was now prepared to cheer on Tim the following day.

The next week, was a great week of running till I hit the 16 mile long run..Just a week earlier I was in Louisville running 20 with little ot no pain...Now here I was a week later and struggling, physically and mentally to get through a 16 miler...It did not help that the entire run was done in a drizzling rain...and it did not help that the night before I had spent 4 hours on my feet watching the Huskis play the LSU tigers in their opening game of the 2009 College Football Season..

I called Vanessa at mile 13 to get picked up, and fortunately she had to say no, because the kids were napping...Thats all I needed to kick my ass into gear the final 3 miles...They sucked...but that was because it was now down pouring..I was getting hit from the top and the bottom by rain...IT was tough, but the 16 were done..

The folloiwng week was easy...3-7 mile runs followed by a long run of only 7...This was a nice break all the way around...On my 7 mile long run, I was at a Leadership Weekend, so I teamed up with a Triathlete in the class to run it with...I was a tad nervous..Could I hang with him, or would I seem like a turtle...I did all right and we had a very enjoyable run..Who knew that I could actually carry on a conversation while runnning.

Now we are up to the present day...Yesterday, my commitment to training was in high gear...As my little brother told me yesterday, you are now the crazy one of the family...I arose at 4 a.m. and headed out on my 20 miler....Ugh...It rained the entire time...what the hell....Mentally it takes a little bit out of you, but then you think, If I can do it now at 4 in the morning in the rain, I will be able to do it rain or shine on race day...or at least thats what I think...The run was pretty uneventful...sure I had the typical mental fights...stop, Go, finish, run, walk etc.

The biggest heart stopper though was the Coyote that decided to pop out of the woods about 50 yars in front of me and run back in..I am really glad he did...Almost needed an extra pair of undies...

After the run, I was picked up by my loving/supportive/amazing wife and we both hustled to get me ready for the Huskies vs USC football game...I showered etc. while Vanessa packed the bag...By 0900 I was in Bremerton meeting Chris W and getting ready to walk on the ferry...Oops...the ferry is broke..so we had to wait till 1015 to head on the next ferry to Seattle...

7 hours later, Chris and I were down on the field celebrating the Huskies, historic and miraculous win over the #3 team in the country...

What a day, and when I got home Vanessa and the kids had a great card waiting for me...telling me how great my training is and how proud they are of me....for meeting my goals...I love them so much, and they have been so supportive...

What goals, or at this point GOAL....That yesteday I weighed in at 200 POUNDS.....Back in February of 2007, I weighed close to 300 pounds...Today I write this, knowing I weigh 200 pounds...lower than I have been in over 17 years....Where there is a will there is a way....

Thank you Mr. Miyagi

Today I woke up at 4:30 a.m and hit snooze on the ole' cell phone Alarm Clock only to have it ring 5 minutes later...Internally, I told myself, you need to get up, you need to do this...Fighting the urge to go back to sleep I ventured out for my 18 mile training run...The running plan called for a 10:23 average pace...I instead averaged 10:09..I think I could have stayed below 10, however the last few miles had some pretty steep hills and my legs were killing me. Overall very happy with the run...and I have to throw some love to Mr. Miyagi...yes that Mr. Miyagi..Danielsan's teacher, coach, mentor...well actually it is not really to him, but it sounds cooler...In the Karate Kid I, when Daniel begins his quest to become the Karate Champion, there is a great song...OK a great 80's song..OK, I think it was a great 80's song..."You're the Best" by Joe "Bean" Esposito.

As Daniel is kicking A#$ and taking names this song is blaring in the background...I loved it, always have...Well I finally found it on Itunes, and for the first time, put it into my playlist for my runs...It did not play once, twice or even three times...yep four times...and everytime I could hear Danielsan yelling " We did it Mr. Miyagi, we did it." Almost choked up...ok maybe not...ok maybe...

Another really cool thing that happened on this mornings run was seeing a Bald Eagle fly up and land about 40 feet in front of me...Tried to get my cell phone out and take a pic...It just was too quick...

In conclusion I have included a few pics...turn away if you do not want to see me without my shirt on...I will understand...Just wanted folks to see the progression of my weight loss..Have also included a pic from 2+ years ago when I started this endeavor...It has been tough and there have been ups and downs...but I am happy to report today that I weighed in at 209....a pound lighter than my Senior Year of HS Football...Have a great week everyone, and for those that are fighting the battle..keep fighting on...as Mr. Esposito say's "You're the Best"

Pushing 300 Pounds...Yikes...

209 Pounds...and feeling great..

One of my 3 biggest fans..."Daddy your belly is going away"

Hell Yeah that Felt Good....

October 25th seems a long way in the distance, but I know that it will be here before I know it...and after tonights run I can hardly wait. Tonight I had a 7 miler...Going into it, I felt really good..I am back into the routine this week after being at residence camp last week...Weights, Cardio, Running and Eating Right all clicking as smoothly as I could possibly want.

Then came tonights run...With a time of 1:00:02 I was amazed..I have never run that distance that fast...Sure to you speed demons out there 8:50 min miles may not seem like much...but to this guy...I am ECSTATIC...

Baby Brother was right...as the weight drops the speed will pick up, the endurance will get better, and I will feel like a NEW MAN!!!!

YES I DO!!!!

Just took a look back at my scrapbooks...Senior Year Football..Media Guide...I weighed 210...I weighed in tonight...because I wanted to...at 213.....For all of you like myself, that have doubted themselves...Find the courage to start, because when you do, you will not be able to describe the joy you feel to anybody...Believe me..I have tried...

Finally please do not forget that for the Marine Corps Marathon, I am running for Team Hole in the Wall...you can click on the following link and donate right online...Once clicking on the link, click on the Support Chris Section and the rest is pretty self explanatory...Thank you..
http://www.teamholeinthewall.org/netcommunity/manwichmantorunningman

Operation Purple Camp and Husky Picture Day

Check out the link to the Family Blog...Did not want to repeat everything I already did there...

http://kasparekfamily.blogspot.com/2009/08/operation-purple-camp-and-picture-day.html

Possibly the Best Morning Ever....

This morning, I woke up at 5 a.m. and prepared myself for the 14 mile run....I had set out all of my necessary items the night before, and slept on the couch...This way I do not disturb Vanessa or the kids when I am getting up at the butt crack of dawn for my run.

When the alarm went off at 5 a.m., I won't lie it was hard to get up...The temp outside was a ton cooler then it has been so your mind starts playing tricks with you..Am I going to be warm enough at the begining of the run? Do I have everything I need? Will I have enough water? to name a few...

So after going through my usual routine, I hit the road at 5:30 a.m. My route was great...no traffic, hmmm, wonder why...Oh yeah its 5:30 in the morning...The first 4.25 miles were awesome...they are a part of my usual route, so I know it like the back of my hand...The next 3 miles were the brutal ones...Straight up hill..Not a quick hill...Nope a pain in the ass long one...It felt good, but you cannot help but look up and say "am I there yet".

After the big hill it was pretty easy from there...Sure you fight the mental fatigue, but everything was flowing very nicely...At mile 9 I entered the base and started running towards one of my School-Age Programs...Why? Because I was starting to run a little low on water and did not want to short myself on the last 4 hours...After refueling at the center, I had 2 more miles to go....

I then left the base at mile 12...2 more to go...Feeling really good...but definitely getting fatigued..A couple of small hill climbs later and I was to the end of my 14 mile adventure...The time I was supposed to do was 10:21 miles...I instead averaged 10:14...A few months ago this would have discouraged me...Now...not at all..I am sticking to my training program and this is what it said to do...Plus take out the mother #$%^&* Hill and who knows..

So after my long run, I did my usual...strip down and weigh in for the week...I was very excited about this...Last week I had weighed in at 234 after 9+ days on the new "Body for Life" nutrition plan...The only problem with that was I had no idea what I started at....Which is no big deal...I guestimate that I started somewhere between 240 and 250....I did start right after a vacation...

So I stepped on the scale, held my breath(this absolutely does nothing), and looked down as the electronic scale as it calculated how much I weighed...Come on, Come on....and then it happened...224...HOLY @#$%%....I stepped on and off the scale three more times just to make sure it was right...Even had Vanessa look at it...even though it was probably hard to do, considering she was probably distracted by her naked husband(yes, I put that visual in your head)....224, I have not been this low since before we left Japan and I am only 5 pounds away from being the lowest I have been since...Wait for it....Senior Year in HS....

So how could my day possibly get any better....Well we then went to Church...Nope that did not make my day better(no offense), but rather it was the next stop on the Kasparek Morning Plan that did the deed...OLD NAVY....We walked in, only because they were having a 30% Sale and I picked out some shirts....DAMN, the one I really liked was not available in a XL....So I asked the Old Navy worker Kristen if they had another...She said they did, but not sure where I would find it....Thanks...She then stated that they run big and I may want to try a Large....Right...a Large...are you kidding me...I am not sure I even wore a Large in HS...Then I thought what the hell...we will try it out....Went to the fitting room and tried it on.....

WOW...It actually fit...and it looked really good...To make sure that I was not hallucinating I walked into the main store and asked Vanessa and her mom(Yep...Linda is out visiting...)..They said it looked really good...I then stated I know, and it is a LARGE....

So now I had to change the sizes of the other shirts I had picked out....Who knew...Sure not me...Then we went to pay...There was Kristen at the register...She asked if it fit alright and I said..yeah suprisingly...She then made my day even better...."Well I was surprised that you needed an XL, you do not look like an XL person" IF Vanessa was not there I think I would have kissed her....

So now we are home and I have a smile from ear to ear...You that have either struggled with weight or are struggling with weight know these feelings...You know how good it feels to have a morning like this...Well guess what....if you are struggling, hopefully this will serve as some sort of inspiration that WE ALL CAN DO THIS!!!!!

Have a great day....PS: Thank you COACH TIM....

Whale of a Run....

What a great weekend...On Saturday morning, the family...which for the weekend included our good friend Melissa from Iowa headed to the Whaling Days Run...The family ran the 1 mile, while I ran the 4 miler...

Felt really good during the race and finished in 34 minutes...The winner...Shane...I won't attempt to spell his last name won the event...With a time of 20 minutes...Shane will be a senior this year at CK high and is considered one of the best distance runners ever to come out of the state of Washington....I would not be surprised to see him in the Olympics in 2012..No joke...Sunday I woke up at 6 am and headed out for my 12 miler...The run was great, the weather was beautiful, and I found a lost wallet...No kidding...Wallet w/ 60 bucks, credit cards and some keys...The cop I saw driving by a few minutes later was pretty surprised when I turned in the wallet with the money...felt right, and helped me feel good the rest of the run...

After the run it was Free day on the eating habits...So what did I have..Pizza and Pizza and then attempted to have Ice Cream...Honest to God...Could only muster a few bites...Guess thats a good thing...

So after 9 days on the eating right lifestyle...I have lost over 10 pounds...Feeling really good..and getting stoked that my 36's are within reach...

Enjoy the pics..

8 Days and Counting...

8 Days ago I stated on my post that it was now time to get serious...I was kicking it into gear for both the marathon training and the nutrition side of things...

Here we are 8 days later and going strong...Granted it has been tough, but I am already seeing results and feeling great...Little Brother Tim had told me that there would be tests along the way...and ohhh was he right..The "Body for Life" lifestyle...I call it a lifestyle because it is something I want to do on a permanent basis not just for a "diet"....started last Thursday...I had sat with Tim on the internet going over my goals and immediately upon hanging up I started my plan in place...

3 meals a day + 3 supplemental meal shakes a day + marathon plan = SUCCESS...

1st Test came on Saturday night...Emma and I had spent the day in Seattle watching our first MLS game...it was awesome...We brought our lunches and my shake mix and had a wonderful time...Upon our return to Bremerton we went to our friends the Warthens house for Supper...Low and Behold the first test...Tony's Pizza...Not just any Tony's pizza, but Meat and Spice...For all that have come out and enjoyed it and those yet to do so...This stuff is the shiznit...guess what...its not in my plan...so instead i enjoyed a wheat tortilla w/ lettuce and ham...mmmmmmmm.....

2nd Test came on Sunday afternoon...we made the jaunt down to Olympia to celebrate our friend Olive's 2nd Birthday...Dip, Chips, Cake, Ice Cream, Steak Kabobs, Chicken Kabobs...the works....Not for me...I stuck to my plan...Sure I could have had the chicken or steak...but it was not at my time...

3rd Test...Went to the mall last night and watched Emma eat an entire Ice Cream Cone...Usually she has trouble with cones and ends up leting parts melt and it starts to drip..Nope, not last night...It was as if she knew that Daddy could not help her, so she finished the whole freaking thing...

4th Test...This week at work...Everywhere I turned it must have been bring a dozen donuts to work day...a fritter here, a jelly filled there, and what's that...oh just a chocolate glazed....

It is not going to be easy and I look forward to implementing a free day into my week in the next few weeks...but I have to say I feel great...

I of course could not do it with out some important people:
*My co-workers who I have enlisted to watch my eating and to make sure I do not grab a donut.
*Emma who reminded me tonight that my flabby belly is getting smaller..
*Coach Tim, who has inspired many with his Triathlons but has pushed me to strive to be smaller and better..
* and Vanessa who though may tease me with a cookie across my nose or a comment on how good the cake tasted has started to adapt our suppers to meet my plans..Thank you honey.

What's next? The next 8 days...

Now we get SERIOUS!!!

Hard to believe it has been two weeks since I last wrote...I guess thats what happens when you go on vacation for 2 weeks..

The family and I left on the 28th of June(Day after the Seattle Rock n Roll) and flew to Cedar Rapids, Iowa. We spent a week in Swisher(My Hometown), which included running the CR 8K...This was a great race...I did it in just under 44 minutes...This is hilarious because back in 2003 I did a 5K in 45 minutes...On the 4th we had a great time as my parents held their annual 4th Bash around the pool..This year included an 80's Cover Band...The HS kids were great...

Just after the start of the 8K


The Kasparek's

On the 5th we headed over to Winterset...Vanessa's home town and the birthplace of John Wayne and the home of the Bridges of Madison County...Spent a good week with the in-laws and then headed to Spencer, Iowa and helped Joe Parker and Jessi Kenyon tie the knot. Met some great people that have become great friends...

Gotta say that I am pretty happy with the running I did on vacation...Ran almost everyday, and took in some great scenery...even if it was just corn and rolling hills...Running through my hometown brought back many childhood memories...

Then yesterday we arrived back in Washington...and now it is go time...Go time in the sense that I am now full in to the Marathon Training for the Marine Corps Marathon...Not only am I full in, I have enlisted the help of a coach...One that many of you are familiar with...My little brother Tim...The IronMan that he is has agreed to lend me his support and expertise...more for my eating...but support that I need none the less...

Today started that plan....I have till October 25..the day of the race to try and lose 40 pounds...or try to get down to 200 or less pounds..The funny thing is, I have no idea how much I weigh right now...It could be anywhere between 230 and 240...My lowest was right before we left Japan when I was at 220 for the first time since Senior year of HS...and not knowing usually would bother the living shit out of me...right now..it doesn't..which in itself is a huge victory...

My other motivation for the race and one that I will be asking all of your support shortly on is a charity that I have decided to run for...I have decided to run for "Team Hole in the Wall" This is the charity that Paul Newman started that sends children with Serious Illnesses to Camps around the world...I am required to raise $1500.00 dollars...My goal is $5000.00....You can link to my Team Hole in the Wall Web Page and donate via the following link(also listed in my favorites to the left)...or send a check directly to me which I will then deposit into the program...I have worked with children my whole life...and this gives me that much more incentive during my run....

http://www.teamholeinthewall.org/netcommunity/manwichmantorunningman
(Once on the site, click on the Support Chris Link located above the picture of hands)

So there it is...the offical let's get serious...Below are some pics from the last race as well as vacation...Enjoy and thank you ahead of time for all of the suppor that you will provide me...You always do....

Seattle Rock N Roll...So Close...

At 4:00 a.m. this morning I was woke up by the Alarm Tone of my phone..."The Office Theme" Rolled over and could not believe it was time...So I popped out of bed and headed to the restroom to get ready for the race. I had set out all of my stuff the night before so that I could get ready in the restroom of our Sheraton Room and not wake Vanessa or the kids...

After 2 quick trips to the Throne(this is important) I was headed out to catch the shuttle to the starting line. The good thing about the Sheraton was that it is only 2 blocks from the Shuttle...So me and my fellow runners caught school buses for the 15 minute jaunt to the Starting Line...Wanting to get to the shuttle early because I was nervous that I may miss it, or would get to the race late ended up back firing but also being a blessing in disguise. The shuttle was earily quiet...Everyone, I am assuming, focusing on the race ahead...We would have plenty of time to focus later.

The shuttle, 1 among many, arrived at the starting line at 5:00 a.m. Yep, 2 hours of waiting for the race...Do you know all the things you can do for two hours...Well let me tell you a few..

-Eat half a bagel(Was a really good thing..Yep, I forgot to pack a breakfast...DUMB)

-Eat a Banana(See above)

-Check out all of the Ugly Ladies..Of course UGLY meaning..Not so much(Don't be pissed..I already told Vanessa....70% of this race were women.)

-Watched a guy with the ugliest stride I have ever seen...

-Stretched every muscle in my bosy at least 20 times....2 Hours to kill folks..

-Visited the Porta Potties...Wait for it....6 times...Yep...6...Holy @#$% ...literally...

At 6:45 as I was finally getting into the Throne for the last time it was time to proceed to my gate...Gate #7...This was the section for us that were going to try our asses off to finish the half in under 2 hours...There she was, the pacer...With the 2 hour mark held high in the air...All I had to do was stay in front of her...Thats all...

As I turned around and looked backwards, for the first time I saw the "Swarm"...25,000 Runners...It was amazing...and I must tell you...These guys know how to do this marathon thing..If you ever get the chance to run a Rock n Roll Marathon...Do it...They are professional and very organized...

7 o'clock hit and the gates started to creep towards the starting line...1,2,3,4,5,6 and then it was 7's turn...GO!!!!

I went out like a Catholic after the 99 cent Fish Sandwich from McDonalds during Lent...Feeling great...really great...and best of all, I was in front of the Pacer...

After 2 miles I was sitting pretty...or running pretty...Passed a few bands(there is one at each mile) and was really excited about the next 2 hours ahead...

At mile 5 I was still feeling good...Then I hit, 6....6.3...and then 6.55(the half of the half) and then it happened...I heard someone in the crowd say, "There is the 2 hour pacer for the Half" WHAT!!!!! WHERE???? It cannot be....Oh, no it can..There she was, with her sign over her head...At that time we hit a downhill and like that speedy Catholic I headed down the hill as fast as I could...I needed to build a cusion, if I could do that, she would not catch me...Right? Wrong...

My legs started to ache, the feet started to hurt and I started to feel a little naucious, or dehydrated...You choose the word...I pulled off for a second and stretched really quick, and took another trip to the throne...I may have been dehydrated...but I was still peeing like a race horse...and then it happened, she passed me by....for the next mile or so, I kept her in my sites...then I started to drift backwards...DAMMIT...For the next two miles I fought the internal mindgames that happen to all athletes..Is it worth it..Why even continue...but in the back of my mind, I kept hearing my little brother cheering me on...

You see he fought these same demons a few weeks ago(at a Half Ironman no less), and beat them...Could I beat them too...Damn skippy...

So I pushed on...At mile 11 I was at somewhere near 1:45 or so...Could I pull some crazy miracle and finish the last 2.1 in less than 15 minutes...Faster than I have ever run before..I was going to try..It was a steady downhill that teased you like an Underclassman in College(not that that ever happened to me)....It showed you Qwest Field, where the finish line was...Took you right up to it ALMOST, then WHAMMO...it took you another direction completely away from it and Up a Damn Hill....

I hit the 12 mile mark at approx 1:56 or so...So now it was just a matter of trying to break a time I would set in my head and change over the last 1.1 miles...Break 2:04, no 2:05, NO 2:07....and it was that number that I finally did break...Coming down the last 500 yards or so, I finally heard, thats right heard Vanessa yelling "GO CHRIS" There was Emma cheering loudly as well...I rounded the turn to bring it home....

At this time I would like to say that the people lined up for the last 300 yards were brutal..Unless they knew you, they just stood there twiddling their thumbs and looking at us with a look that said...Uhhhhhhhhh...I was so pissed...This is the time where runnners look for that last burst of help...at least I do...but it did not come... As I crossed the finish line and brought myself to a stop, I ached...I ached in the worse way...but I was Happy...not because I did not meat my goal...but rather because I had done it at all..I could have quit when the pacer passed me by...but I didn't...1 Reason was because of my little brother..The other...I have never quit anything in my life...and I am not about to start now. Oh and the Race Medal Kicked Ass...

Hopefully you enjoyed the recap...I enjoyed running it...even in the painful parts...

I will end on this...Back in 2003 before Vanessa and I headed to Japan, I ran the 5K in Cedar Rapids...My time 45 minutes....Yep 45 minutes...15 minute miles...HOLY CRAP....Today I hit the 5K mark in 27.38 or an average of 8:54...Next weekend I am running the same race I did back in 2003...Only now I am running the 8k...For that race 45 minutes will be acceptable...but I am shooting for lower...

"We take these risks not to escape life, but to keep life from escaping us"

Father's Day = 1 More Week till Seattle Rock n Roll

So today was an all around awesome day...Was woke up by the smiles of two fabulous kids at 6 a.m., treated to Cinnamon Rolls and a few gifts and headed to church. My wardrobe was amazing..I sported a t-shirt designed by my 4 year old daughter Emma...After church we headed out for some erands and then headed home for some chill action.

Finally at around 3 I decided to head out for my last long run before the Half-Marathon next weekend. As most of you know, I am trying to set a personal best by breaking the 2 hour mark...If my feelings today are any indication of how I will do next week, I am VERY EXCITED...

I hit the 6.6 mile mark at under 60 minutes for the first time in forever. Now the funny thing is, I tried something new...No music...Instead I listened to an Audio Book...No s#$%, a book...I thought for sure it was a risk...Who knew that I would be so engulfed in the book that I did not even notice my running...Less water intake, less concentration, but more success..and the worst of it...It is the book about the Dallas Cowboys...the tell all of the Championship years...Gotta say..Pretty good stuff.

So the question is...Do I try this approach for the race? Not sure...and the truth be told, there are going to be plenty of bands on the race route...Do I change my habits one week before the race...Any ideas...suggestions....So conflicted...If anything I am going to listen to the book on my runs this week and see how I feel...Then I can make the decision on Saturday morning...I will have a playlist and a book list ready to go int he trusty I-pod...Still...suggestions would be nice..Even if it just means that people are actually reading this...

I would like to finish by wishing all of you that are Father's or Father's to be...I know a few;)
a Happy Father's Day..We belong to an amazing fraternity...one that not all are a part of, but once you are, you understand how truly special it is to be a member...

I love you Emma and Camden...

That's more like it...

So after Church today, it was time for another 10 miler...The weather was a far cry from what it has been lately...60 degrees, a little bit of wind....and on top of that, I decided to take on a new route...The route took me through almost 3 miles of base before heading out the main gate. From the gate is was a pretty decent downhill followed by a slight uphill, both of which felt really good...Actually the first 5 of todays run felt really good..

The next 1.5 was a little rougher...the biggest hill I have done in awhile...I was supposed to do this hill last year during the marathon training, but had been injured during that week of training...It was pretty brutal, however I maintained a good pace...and it will definitely come in handy in Seattle.

The next 1.5 was a steady downhill...Which felt great...sometimes I struggle going down the hills, this one felt alright...My last 2 miles were part of my regular route...so these came pretty easy...

So after 10 miles, I felt good and was happy with my time...1:32....I am going to be cutting it close in Seattle for the 2 hour mark.. but I will be very much aware of my time...

Going into the finaly two weeks of training, I am very thankful that I chose to switch to the half....it could have been ugly...

I am really feeling like I am peeking at the right time with my training...and that is a really good feeling in more way than one.

Feeling Good...

So I looked at the posting date of my last Blog and realized that 12 days have passed....That does not seem at all possible....1st Off, and I doubt he will read this till later, but my little brother is competing in a Half Ironman this weekend...So proud of the kid and I know he is going to kick a@#....

So my training has been going really well, I have been averaging between 20-28 miles per week for the last 3 weeks...and am currently on pace to break the 2 hour mark for the Half. The knee is feeling great, and I have started to be smarter with taking days off and resting my legs...It has helped...

So with 2 weeks to go before the Half in Seattle, overall feeling great and cannot wait...Also cannot wait for the day after when the family will be hopping on the plane for Iowa...We are looking forward to two weeks of fun with our families, while also taking in a race...

Brutal with a CAPITAL B....

Well first off I have to say it has been a few weeks since my last blog...Have not really had that much to blog about....We have been extremely busy with Camping, Work, etc. Running has been going pretty well as I slowly try to get to that comfy zone where I was before...Definitely finding it harder lately to get out there as well as watch what I eat...So I am trying to kick myself back into it...Today may have been the kick in the ass I needed...

At about 3 p.m. I set out for a 10 miler...a distance that should take me less than an hour and a half...Today it took me almost two full hours...not two full hours to run but two hours to keep myself in shape to run...

When I was in Japan running, I routinely ran in 80-90 degree heat....stayed hydrated etc. In the NW we very rarely ever even get hot and hot here is different...The temp may be 80 and that feels hot, since we are almost always at 50-60, so it seems.

So today it was "hot" and at mile 4 I had already gone through my fuel belt and was dragging ass. Combine that with my crappy lunch and snacking...At the 6.25 mark I finally got to a convenience station and filled up with G2, Water and more water...Combined I drank over 64 ounces and then started up again...Lets just say I dragged ass for the last 4....Thankfully my legs felt great...it was more my hydration, and energy...plus the 64 ounces that were now sitting in my gut....

So here I am about 15 minutes after the run, still cooling down, and feeling slowly better....
Lessons learned...Stay hydrated, eat right and do not get cocky....

One month till the half and the goal of breaking my personal best....After today I have never wanted it more and know that I need to be prepared and smart to do so....

From a Parade to the Sox....

So Saturday was an incredible day both weather wise and activity wise...We started the day with the Annual Bremerton Armed Forces Day Parade. It is really amazing and awe-inspiring living in a community that has such admiration for our Armed Forces. Granted I have worked for the Armed Forces for the last 10+ years, however not all communities have the same reactions. Seeing survivors of Pearl Harbor and WWII come down our streets is humbling and rewarding...You cannot help but stand and pay your respect and say Thank you..

The weather on the other hand...ouch..literally..I again, havenot learned the simple pleasures of SUNBLOCK...Sure Vanessa asked if I wanted some...Sure I knew the sun was beating down on me...and once again I can say for the 34th straight summer.."I was building my base burn"....to which Vanessa so compassionately responded...."Ok Izzie" to which I answered "Hello Grandpa K, come on in...." You who watch Grey's will understand the sarcasm...If not...Oh well...

After the Parade, we headed home for a few hours of rest and relaxation before heading out to Seattle for a B-day party...We are looking forward to pics, so we will update the blog on that at a later time.

After the party we headed to the Red Sox v.s. Mariners game. This is our 2nd Mariner Season since arriving to the NW, and of course we always try to get in at least 1 Sox game when they come out here. Last year I was fortunate enough to get two games in, one of which I remember...This year, the Sox are only coming out once so our choices were limited. Yesterday we met up with our friends the Holloways for a Sox victory...It was Camden's 2nd MLB Game...Amazing, he has been to more games at 2 then I had been to by the time I was 21...This was Emma's 1st MLB Game.. She had been to a Japanese Professional Baseball Game, but never a MLB Game.

After the game we headed home, which can be brutal...Its about an hour and a half drive from Seattle back home...Why do I tell you this part..Because in the tradition of me attending the Red Sox games here in Washington...it has become routine that after every Sox game that I drive home from, I get PULLED OVER....yep, by the Cops...Fortunately he let me off...Says I was going fast and weaving...Asked me if I had been drinking..."Nope"..wanted to say.."Not since December"...Vanessa thinks we got off because when he flashed his light in the backseat he saw two kids fast asleep...I think so too...Enjoy the Pics...

Claire, Emma and Camden waiting for the Parade to begin..

Camden and I taking it all in...
Patriotism at a Young Age....
Not sure the Mariner Moose was happy to be surrounded by Red Sox Fans..HE was a good sport non-the less.

Daddy's little girl...
Camden taking it all in...HE had a rough start, but rallied from the 4th inning on..Including becoming good buddies with the Drunkards in front of us....hahahahah.
What a family, and what a view...

It has become tradition that anytime we are together with the Holloways that we take a picture of Vanessa and Maggie...Love this one...One of my favorites..Especially with the lights in the background..

What constitutes a night at "the office"

So two years ago when I made the transformation to my healthier self, I stopped for the most part in having splurge kind of nights with food...I found my body not reacting well and spending half the night in "the office"...Well last night I made the mistake of splurging and boy did I pay...So what causes such a visit to the office:

Dinner:
2 Manwiches
Chips
Water
+
Later:
Movie Popcorn
Movie Lemonade(64+ Ounces)
+
Later, Later
Snickers Ice Cream Bar
4 Icee Thin Popsicles(Yep, those, the ones that cost like $5 for 6 million)
=
3 hours of pain....Lesson learned...and it is a good lesson...My body has changed...quit making it sick...

Being Safe....Being Smart....and Going to Do it...

So I went out on a 6 miler tonight and it dawned on me that I needed to be smarter with my running...Well maybe smarter is not the word...maybe wiser...I was lucky, fortunate, that I was able to recover so quickly from my knee infection. So in saying that, I have decided that instead of taking the risk and hurting myself and running the full marathon at the end of June, I will instead run the half-marathon. I feel that this will allow my body to continue to recover and not put it through the grueling longer runs, at least for now.

So all of you that know me well, know that I can never just do something, there has to be something more. So the something more for this race will be breaking my PR for the half and finishing under 2 hours. This will be tough, but I AM GOING TO DO IT!!!!

I know this decision is going to make my Mom happy, and in reality I think I am finally starting to listen to her, my dad and my brother...

As I push forward over the next two months, I cannot wait till June 27th when I cross the finish line in under 2 hours...

It has dawned on me recently that I do many of the things I do, because I want to set and example for my children....I want them to be able to look at their dad when they get older and say WOW, look what our Dad did...and then hopefully it will inspire them to set their own goals...

Finally, I could not possibly accomplish what I do or will without the support of a loving wife...I love her more than she will ever know....Thanks Babe...

Who would have thunk it....

So all of you( maybe 4 or 5) that keep up with my blog, were well aware of the trials and tribulations of my knee injury/infection. If you are reading this blog for the first time, and have no clue what I am talking about, scroll down, catch up and return here later...

So two weeks+ had passed since my last "real" run...The 16 miler that preceeded the Knee infection...2+ weeks later, and a total of 3 miles running and I was headed to Vancouver, Canada with the family for a weekend of fun, relaxation and maybe, just maybe being able to run part of the Half-Marathon I had signed up for months ago.

We headed up Friday night, and arrived in Vancouver around 9:00 p.m. The kids were spun up after a few pieces of licorice and would not go to sleep...Was this a sign of things to come...Only if your name is Camden Lee...


Saturday we awoke and if you were to ask Vanessa I was not the cheeriest Cheerio in the bowl. We headed to Stanley Park, the Aquarium and The Kids Market before heading out for dinner. Dinner to say the least was unenjoyable...Camden threw a fit beyond fits and I wolfed down my Pasta supper with the hopes that maybe, just maybe I could run in the morning. These thoughts of running are what made me un-fun...The wondering if I could or couldn't run...Would my knee hold up, my lungs, my legs...Who knew...3 miles in two weeks...It had been months since I had run that little...

So Sunday morning I woke up at 5:00 a.m. and prepared for the run...Nip Guards, Glide, Socks, Shoes, I-Pod, Running Briefs, the whole gammut...and for the first time since I have started running in races, walked to the starting line...The main reason of course for doing this was to help Vanessa. This way the kids could sleep in and they could catch up with me later at the finish...That is if I was so fortunate to indeed finish..

Our hotel was less than two miles from the hotel, so it was a really nice walk...The sunrise was beautiful and it was neat to walk beside other runners as we walked to the race. I wondered what kind of stories they had...What brought them here...Had they fought injuries...

This was my view on the way to the race...Beautiful.

This is where the Opening Ceremonies of the Winter games are taking place. On my route to the race.

People starting to line up for the race...15,000 strong...Yikes..

The starting line...

I got to the finish line a half hour before the race...I turned on the Garmin watch and made sure it was set for KM's instead of miles...The race was in Canada...Love the metric system...Did not realize how much till the race began...

As I started stretching, I could not help but wonder what was going to happen over the next two+ hours...Would I make it a mile, 2 miles...or would I just collapse...That was my biggest fear...

Oh..I must mention, the day before at the Expo, I came across the medals for the finishers...and without a doubt I thought they were the coolest I had seen thus far in my race career...

Then it happened...The race began....The beginning was slow...What do you expect when there are 15,000 runners. This was perfect..It forced me to slow down...As the KM's passed I had no concept of how many miles I was running...Really I had no clue...but it sure seemed like it was going fast...21.1 KM's....that is not so bad...


The legs felt great, the body felt great, and HOLY @#$% the knee felt great...and I should know..I was looking down at it every KM...was it swelling, was it going to explode...Hell I had no clue...

So the first 10 KM were pretty uneventful...Yep thats right the first 10KM...I could not believe it myself...Then came the 14 KM mark...After an 8 minute stop at the potty...I know how long, because I stopped my timer....At this time I text messaged Vanessa and my Lil Brother Tim...Told them I only had 7 KM to go...and at that time it dawned on me...You are going to do it you SOB....

and I did....The last 7 are a pretty big blur, but I hurt when it was all said and done...Not my knee, but the rest of me...The parts of you that hurt after running normally...Just now they felt worse because it had been 2 weeks...2 weeks...2 weeks...I could not believe it...I did it...
Coming down the home stretch...Yes I was hurting a tad bit.
A little bit of a smile...hahahaha.
Almost there...

My biggest fan....

After finishing, and getting my super bad ass medal...it dawned on me...Marathon 1 of the year on June 27th was now within reach...Hell yeah....Oh and my time was 2:22 without counting the potty break...2:31 counting it...and counting the first bathroom break, which I forgot to mention...oops...So that was an average of over 11 minute miles...Not great...but my goal was not to be Flash...my goal was to finish...Enjoy the pics...
The bad ass medal...